§ 37. Colonel DAYasked the Postmaster-General if he is aware of the annoyance experienced by wireless listeners in coastal districts, owing to the use of spark transmitters by ships; and whether any action can be taken with a view to abating this form of annoyance?
§ Sir W. MITCHELL-THOMSONI am aware that wireless communication between ship and shore does at times interfere with broadcast reception, especially when unselective receiving apparatus is used. The abolition of spark transmission from ships would require international agreement, and I hope that it may be possible to achieve this, when financial conditions at home and abroad in the shipping industry improve. Meanwhile however improvement can be effected by making receiving apparatus more selective.
§ Colonel DAYAre negotiations taking place at the present time for the abolition of this method of transmission?
§ Sir W. MITCHELL-THOMSONAs the hon. Member knows, an International Radio-Telegraphic Conference is to be held at Washington next year, when this, among other matters, will no doubt be considered.
§ Lieut.-Commander KENWORTHYIs the right hon. Gentleman aware that there is no demand at all from listeners in the country, through their association, for the abolition of this marine signalling?